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Josh Hamilton, who racked up 43 home runs and 128 RBIs with the Rangers last season, has had a rough first year with the Angels. And while his struggles are likely due to a combination of things, the 32-year-old may have been adversely affected by a new diet that he started last offseason.

Hamilton, who enters Friday’s action hitting .249 with 21 home runs and 76 RBIs, started a natural juice diet last offseason, according to MLB.com’s Alden Gonzalez. The outfielder entered the season weighing 227 pounds, which is about 20 pounds lighter than normal for him, and is now down to about 215. Hamilton reportedly would like to start at 245 next season and finish no lighter than 230.

“I’m going to try to put some weight on, but do it the right way — by doing a lot of the things I’m doing now, but adding more calories, things like that,” Hamilton reportedly said. “Because this year, I haven’t been weaker than I have — I’m just as strong in the weight room as I’ve ever been — but I think there’s something to say about having a little extra butt on you.”

A five-year, $125 million contract can help a guy buy a lot of things. But “a little extra butt” requires some work.

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